How do you deal with an Ego Maniac?
I had the most interesting business meeting today. In my 25 years of working, many of them in an executive capacity, I have yet to be in a meeting which was more like hazing than a conversation. The person was fully aware of what he was doing, but could care less and said so with relish. What do you do in such a situation?
I noticed getting offended and asked myself, “Is it you or your Ego that is getting offended?” Just asking the question brought some clarity. The fact was that it was I who requested the meeting with this person. When I tried to assert myself, he was quick to remind me that I had requested to see him and if I wanted to be there, it was going to be his way.
I continued to monitor my feelings and reminded myself to focus my attention on the essence of what he was saying and not the way he was conveying it. Many of the comments he made had good insights, but the delivery was rough.
While the two hours was uncomfortable and draining, he outlined many good ideas and strategies. Since he made it clear that he focused on greed, I was having a tough time buying into the ideas and suggestions. After leaving the meeting and having some time to reflect, I noted that the goals that he set could be achieved without compromising any of my values.
It was my ability to create some distance with the person and the ideas that enabled me to process the situation in a healthy manner.
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